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Vasectomy Reversal Vasectomy Reversal (Vasovasostomy) is a surgical procedure used to restore fertility in men. This is accomplished by reconnecting the vas deferens (tubes that deliver sperm from the testes into the fluid that is ejaculated).
• During the procedure the surgeon uses micro-surgical techniques to make an incision in the scrotum (sac that contains the testes) about 2 centimeters long. He then locates the ends of the vas deferens with a special microscope and reconnects the ends. With the tubes re-attached sperm are again able to mix with semen, allowing for possible egg fertilization to occur.
• The procedure is usually an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia and lasts between two and five hours.
Successful Vasovasostomy is defined by the return of motile sperm to the semen in numbers that are adequate for pregnancy; success rates range between 30% and 85%. The longer the reversal is from the original vasectomy the lower the success rate. On occasion the procedure renders unsuccessful and must be repeated. Overall vasectomy reversal leads to pregnancy in about 50% of couples. After the procedure the vas deferens can get blocked again about 50% of the time after 1 year.
Possible Complications include:
• Bleeding within the scrotum.
• Infection at the surgery site.
• Damage to nerves and blood vessels, possibly hindering fertility.
• Blockage of the vas deferens occurs in 1/2 of patients after one year from the development of scar tissue.
• Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis).
Please observe the following Pre-Operative Guidelines:
• The following medications should be Avoided One Week Prior to the Date of Surgery: All aspirin (ASA) or NSAID’s (Motrin, Advil), Coumadin, Lovenox, Celebrex, Plavix (Please contact us if you are unsure about which medications to stop, Do not stop any medication without contacting your prescribing doctor).
• Have nothing by mouth after midnight the night prior to your procedure unless otherwise instructed by the anesthesiologist.
• There are no restrictions on sexual activity prior to surgery.
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